5 Applause-Worthy Family Movie Night Snacks

Family movie night is fun, even with store-bought snacks. But with recommendations from the Families page at Netflix readily available, you can use your saved time to prepare some super-tasty treats that go far beyond basic popcorn. Round up the crew, pick a movie and serve up some dramatically delicious fun!

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1. Candy Explosion Chocolate Bark: Chop up a pound of your favorite chocolate and melt it in a heatproof bowl in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until completely smooth. Pour into a 13x9-inch baking pan or rimmed baking sheet that’s been lined with foil or parchment paper and sprinkle your kids’ favorite candies on top. (Go crazy! It’s more fun the more stuff you use.) Refrigerate at least an hour until set, then break into pieces and serve.

2. Super Sparkling Spritzer Station: Let kids customize their own fizzy drink by mixing together a variety of juices or fruit drinks (pear nectar, lemonade, and apple cider all work well) and plain or flavored seltzer. Serve in tall cups with fancy straws.

3. The-Sky’s-the-Limit Popcorn: Start with lots of plain popcorn (microwave or stove-top popped) and set out whatever mix-ins you want: mini pretzels, nuts, chocolate candies, gummy bears, the possibilities are endless! Give each person his or her own bowl to customize their own creation.

4. Hot Potato Chips: Scrub a few russet potatoes and slice crosswise into very thin rounds. Toss with some olive oil, salt, and pepper (or chopped herbs and garlic for more adventurous palates) and roast on a rimmed baking sheet in a preheated 450-degree oven for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. TIP: Spread them on a plate while they’re piping hot and top with finely shredded cheddar cheese and scallions for a cheese-fries effect.

5. Banana Bonanza Pops: Cut some slightly ripe bananas in half crosswise and insert a wooden stick into each cut end. Place on a plate or baking sheet in the freezer (not touching), cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for a few hours until solid. Melt some chopped chocolate (see #1, above) and pour it into a tall mug. One at a time, dip each banana in the chocolate (you can then coat them in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or anything else you want by rolling them on a plate of the chosen topping) and carefully transfer to a wax-paper-lined baking sheet or plate. You can eat these right away or freeze them to enjoy completely cold later.